Rethinking networking: How to make real business connections

Rethinking networking: How to make real business connections

From Flying Solo by Flying Solo

April 2, 2026 · 32 min · Season 3 · Episode 7

About this episode

Karen Dennett discusses the need for a new approach to networking that focuses on genuine relationships rather than traditional methods.

Karen Dennett is a business and enterprise teacher, mentor, and founder of Hello Monday. She sits down for a chat with Flying Solo to explore why traditional networking doesn’t work for everyone and how a new approach is needed. Karen shares her journey from corporate teaching to building communities rooted in friendship, support, and vulnerability. In this chat we unpack the “ick factor" of performative networking, and discuss the importance of psychologically safe spaces, and practical ways to cultivate genuine relationships that foster sustainable business growth. If collecting business cards and small talk leaves you cold, tune in for fresh strategies to connect with like-minded business owners and build a community where you belong. Key topics 1. Rethinking Traditional Networking Many soloists and small business owners find conventional networking events exhausting and performative 00:24. Traditional networking can leave individuals feeling inadequate, isolated, or excluded 02:19. There's a growing shift toward building genuine relationships, not just collecting contacts 00:41. Friendship-based communities offer a more authentic and supportive approach 00:53. 2. Building…

People in this episode

Guest: Karen Dennett

Topics covered

  • Rethinking Traditional Networking
  • Building Psychologically Safe Communities

Keywords

  • traditional networking
  • performative networking
  • genuine relationships
  • friendship-based communities
  • psychologically safe spaces
  • vulnerability
  • authenticity
  • meaningful conversations

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